Satya
Police brutality has been a persistent issue in society for many years. One of the earliest recorded cases of such brutality was in 1872 around the Harrison Street Police Station. Since then, instances of police brutality have continued to rise annually, sparking numerous local and nationwide protests. Movements like #BlackLivesMatter, which began as a response to the death of George Floyd under extreme police brutality, all point to the rising prevalence of this troublesome trend. Police brutality may take on several shapes including the use of excessive force, violation of civil rights, and illegal searches or seizures. When any of these occur, and you are, for instance, victimized or brutalized by members of the police force, you know it is time to search for police brutality lawyers near you. Below is more detailed information about these instances and when you should seek legal assistance.
Excessive Force and Assault
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, over 80 law enforcement officers are arrested annually for police brutality in California, and assault is usually the most common reason for such arrests. Such assaults typically occur during arrests, interrogations, protests, or traffic stops and involve the use of excessive force, violence, and intimidation by officers who are often armed. In addition, when there are multiple strikes to the head using batons, clubs, or the butt of a gun, police brutality has occurred. Such attacks may lead to concussions and broken bones, and in such cases, the victim may start seeking out a police brutality lawyer in California.
Illegal Search and Seizure
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. While within the United States, the majority of police officers follow these standards, there remain many police officers who abuse their power by carrying out illegal, forceful searches on private property. Such searches are often carried out without a warrant or any probable cause but are rather based on racial profiling and bias. In such cases, the officers involved may respond to any individual who attempts to halt or intervene in such an illegal process with physical force, violence, and brutality.
Violation of Civil Rights
By virtue of being citizens of the United States, there are certain fundamental rights guaranteed to all individuals under the US Constitution and the 1964 Civil Rights Act. These rights include freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to due process. Police brutality frequently involves a violation of such rights. For instance, during protests, officers may use excessive force to disperse crowds, infringing on the right to peaceful assembly. While a certain degree of force is often required to dispel protesters, officers very easily cross the line between necessary and excessive, thus engaging in police brutality against unarmed civilians.
When faced with any of the situations described above, or others involving police victimization and intimidation, it is crucial to seek the help of a police brutality lawyer to protect your rights and pursue justice.
